DailyFinance.comhttp://www.dailyfinance.comDailyFinance.comhttp://o.aolcdn.com/os/df/2013/img/2-dailyfinance_logo_m.pngDailyFinance.comhttp://www.dailyfinance.comen-usCopyright 2015 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Insider Shopping Tips From a Grocery Store Cashierhttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/06/25/insider-shopping-tips-from-a-grocery-store-cashier/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/06/25/insider-shopping-tips-from-a-grocery-store-cashier/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/06/25/insider-shopping-tips-from-a-grocery-store-cashier/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment

The best deals at the grocery store aren't listed in the weekly circular, but now that a supermarket cashier has posted insider secrets online, you can find out how to really save when shopping. These tips, which were published on Reddit (note: profanity is used), aren't exactly rules to live by, but utilizing them may help save you a few bucks at the register, and that can add up over time.

In addition to common sense suggestions like "always buy in season," Reddit user Lenniebaby advises to make friends with your produce guy, and says to shy away from pre-cut fruits and vegetables. Ready to save? Check out the top money-saving shopping tips below.

1. "Don't put mixed-priced things in one bag. The main offenders are sweet peppers -- if green peppers are $0.99/lb, orange peppers are $1.99/lb and you put them in the same bag, I'm charging you $1.99/lb for the whole thing."

2. "If things are lying on those slanty flat surfaces (lettuce for example), take the stuff that's near the back. Rotating stock means putting old produce at the front so it sells faster. Plus everyone touches it."

3. "If you're buying light stuff (chili peppers, mushrooms) and want to be cheap, don't bother putting them in plastic bags. Four chillies in a bag = $0.85; four chillies carried in your hand and put on the scale bag-free = $0.30. For someone who buys $0.99/lb apples instead of $1.49/lb apples, this is a much better strategy for saving money without compromising quality."

4. "Buy onions in the biggest quantities you can eat before they go bad. If you're buying onions once a week, you're doing it wrong. They keep for months, are used in pretty much every dish, and unlike most other fruits/vegetables you're saving a ton of money when you buy them in bulk. A 10lb bag of onions is $5.99, while a 5lb is $3.99."

5. 'Similarly, never buy those 'cuts' of watermelons that are priced by weight. I've stopped so many people from buying $4 cuts of watermelons (about 1/4 of the melon) when they could buy the entire thing for $6."

6. "Bananas are the cheapest fruits. One banana costs, on average, $0.25. Remember this next time you're in a cafeteria or some other lunch-serving place that sells bananas for $0.99 each."

7. "Don't buy asparagus unless they're displayed in water basins. The bottoms of asparagus should be submerged in water; they'll be fresher for longer."

8. "Baby carrots are overpriced. All they are are cut up, peeled carrots in a plastic bag. For the same price, you can buy twice the amount of normal carrots, peel and cut them up yourself."

]]>foodfood shoppinggroceriesgrocery shoppingSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentshoppingshopping tipsNadine CheungTue, 25 Jun 2013 11:00:00 ESTMake Bucks by Selling Your Stuff -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/26/make-bucks-by-selling-your-stuff-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/26/make-bucks-by-selling-your-stuff-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/26/make-bucks-by-selling-your-stuff-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment
Selling your stuff online is a great way to make money from your not-so-prized possessions, but before you hit the internet, make sure you know how to optimize your listings so your items will sell.

First, choose your words wisely. "Wow," "amazing," "rare," and "pretty" are overused and will cause people to skim over your listing. You should also stay away from using excessive punctuation. Dollar signs, asterisks and exclamation points are annoying, and using too many of them will cause eBay's search engine to overlook your listing.

When it comes to photos, both quality and quantity are important. Take well-lit, hi-resolution images from multiple angles to show off your product. This will help potential buyers to see exactly what they're getting. If you don't have a good camera, ask a friend for help instead of taking images from other listings. Not only is it dishonest to swipe these photos, it can get you into trouble for copyright infringement, too.

People are generally at home and online in the evenings from 7PM-9PM, and the weekends garner the highest traffic with Sunday being the most lucrative. Taking this into consideration, you should select the 10-day listing option, beginning on a Thursday. This way, you'll squeeze in two full weekends of use.

What you sell is really up to you, but if you want to attract buyers, choose new or gently used items. If you're selling clothes or accessories, take note of the current season and trends. For instance, you'll have a much easier time selling a cozy sweater in the winter than you would in the summer. Follow these simple tips, and you'll be turning your dimes into dollars in no time.

]]>fashion and beautyonline sellingonline shoppingsavings experimentSavingsExperimentsellingshoppingused itemsNadine CheungTue, 26 Feb 2013 10:00:00 ESTWhat to Look for in Flatware That Will Last -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/22/what-to-look-for-in-stainless-steel-flatware-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/22/what-to-look-for-in-stainless-steel-flatware-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/22/what-to-look-for-in-stainless-steel-flatware-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Shopping, Home & Garden
All flatware isn't made the same, and while many sets are affordable, they may not last very long. Before you splurge on new forks and knives, find out what you should be looking for to ensure they stay shiny and like new.

When it comes to stainless steel flatware, it's all about the numbers. You'll see sets listed as 18/0 and 18/10 stainless steel, which represent the percentages of chromium and nickel content. So, if a set is listed as 18/10, that means it's made of 18 percent chromium and 10 percent nickel content. If the product is listed as 18/0, it's made of 18 percent chromium with zero nickel matter.

What difference does this make? Well, according to Food Service Warehouse, "chromium is a hard metallic substance that helps increase product hardness" and "nickel is defined as a silvery metallic element that helps resist corrosion."

In other words, since 18/0 flatware has no nickel content, it won't keep it's shine over the years and may be subject to stains. Meanwhile, 18/10 is will stay shiny and rust-resistant. Of course, 18/10 stainless steel sets are more expensive, but if it means you won't have to replace your flatware any time soon, you'll be saving more money in the long run.

Another tip: Think twice before you buy a new set of forks and knives online. Many deal sites offer intriguing prices on seemingly good flatware sets, but often don't disclose their chromium and nickel percentages. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

So, the next time you're shopping for new utensils, keep the 18/10 number in mind. Pick a set you love and you'll have them for what seems like forever.

]]>flatwarefor the homeSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentshoppingsilverwareNadine CheungFri, 22 Feb 2013 20:30:00 ESTHow to Avoid Paying a Premium for Pet Foodhttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/19/did-you-know-save-on-pet-food-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/19/did-you-know-save-on-pet-food-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/19/did-you-know-save-on-pet-food-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Did You Know Your pet deserves the very best, but you may be overpaying for Fido's meals. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you're buying food and feeding your beloved dog or cat.

The only way to really ensure the quality of your pet food is to make it yourself, but not only can it cost you a lot of money, it can also cost you a lot of time. So, when shopping for your pup's next meal, being a savvy consumer is the best way to cut costs.

First, avoid pet stores and pet websites and head to big box retailers like Target and Walmart for the best deals. When looking at labels, stay away from "premium blends," as there's no legal definition for that phrase in the pet food world. Instead, stick with brands that use terms like "complete and balanced," "total nutrition" or "100 percent nutritious." This usually indicates that the product is adequate for the vast majority of healthy pets.

At the end of the day, though, the cost and quality of pet food is really dependent on the opinions of each pet owner. "Package labeling is not a reliable indication, as the standards and definitions differ significantly from human food labeling standards," reports petMD via PawNation. "The use of commercial pet food leaves pet owners to define acceptable levels of compromise between quality and cost."

The site adds that pet food is made from meat products that cannot be profitably sold for human consumption. Meanwhile, the processes used to make kibbled food are known to degrade the quality of many nutrients. "Nutritional claims for this most popular and convenient form of pet food is based on the nutrient content prior to both heat processes," petMD says.

So, whether you choose to make your own pet food or buy it from the store, consider both your out-of-pocket costs and the quality of what you're feeding your dog or cat. In this case, value is subjective and only you can decide what's best for your pet.

*This video should not be used in the place of medical advice. Please consult your veterinarian on the best diet options for your pet.

]]>did you knowfood and drinkpet foodpetssave moneysavings experimentSavingsExperimentNadine CheungTue, 19 Feb 2013 12:30:00 ESTReap Savings by Reducing Your Hot Water Usage -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/19/save-by-reducing-your-hot-water-usage-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/19/save-by-reducing-your-hot-water-usage-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/19/save-by-reducing-your-hot-water-usage-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings ExperimentReducing your hot water consumption is not only good for the environment, it's good for your wallet, too. So, to cut down on the energy expenses in your home, try these easy energy- and money-saving tips.

In the kitchen, set your dishwasher to the shortest cycle to use less water in general. You can also use a booster heater just for the wash cycle. This will decrease the overall temperature in the water heater. Over time, using less water at a lower temperature will equal great savings.

Skip the pre-rinse, too. The machine will do the work for you, and according to The Daily Green, washing a full load of dishes in the dishwasher will save as much as 35 percent of the water used to do a load of dishes by hand.

If you have a garbage disposal, don't use hot water when you run it. Not only will cold water save you money, but it keeps the motor, bearings and shredder from overheating. Additionally, hot water can melt fat, which may become solid further down in the drain and can cause blockages.

The bathroom is another major place to cut water and energy expenses in your home. For instance, most toilets use 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Grab a weighted bottle or a brick wrapped in a plastic bag and place it in the water tank. This will displace the water and help you save water up to 10 gallons per day when you and your family flush.

These are just a few eco-friendly water-saving tips you can use in your home to reduce your utility bills. Keep them in mind and you'll be able to prevent your savings from going down the drain.

When it comes to grocery shopping, we know it's wise to not to go on an empty stomach, but when should you head to the supermarket to bag the best bargains? Believe it or not, there's actually one day of the week that's better than the rest.

That's right, savvy savers. While it may be most convenient for you to shop on the weekends, it's more economical to tackle your grocery list on Wednesdays. According to Lifehacker, this mid-week day is when many grocery stores release new sale ads, but also honor the previous week's sales items. That means you'll have more sale items at your fingertips.

MyGroceryDeals.com also confirmed that Wednesday is the best day for grocery shopping. "For about half of the country, this is the day when approximately half of the retailers start their weekly sales," site representative Gord Crowson told CBS News. Of course, you should double check with your local stores to be sure.

To save even more, experts say that shopping in the evening is your best bet. That means Wednesday nights are the ultimate time to buy. "This is the time when perishables are typically reduced for quick sale," Crowson added. "If the Produce, Bakery or Meat departments are concerned about having too much stock left over at the end of the day, they will often reduce the price by up to 50 percent to encourage quick sales."

So, when your pantry and refrigerator need to be restocked, make time to shop on Wednesday nights. You'll give yourself the best chance to score the biggest deals on your meals.

Jewelry is a popular Valentine's Day gift, but this isn't the time to buy it. Stores often overprice their merchandise, making duds out of their so-called discounts. You may think you're getting a bargain, but stores are still making a pretty penny from your good intentions. Show him or her you care in other ways, or buy jewelry during off months -- like April, July and August -- and save it for the holidays.

So, what is worth buying this month? Well, since companies showcase new lines of electronics in January, February is a great time to buy gadgets. Stores will be trying to get rid of last year's stock to make way for newer, high-priced models. If scoring a deal is a bigger priority for you than having the latest tech product, this is the time to do it.

If you're looking for a new mattress, Presidents Day is when you can get a great deal. This is a time when you can cash in on reduced-priced beds and free box springs, not to mention other freebies. Try negotiating with your salesperson on everything from free mattress pads to pillows -- you'll be surprised what they can do for you.

Luggage is also offered at deep discounts this month. Since February is in the middle of the holidays and spring break, retailers are known to slash their prices on the travel staples.

Before you open up your wallet, keep these timely savings tips in mind. Knowing where and when to spend can lead to great post-holiday deals and extra markdowns that will keep you smiling all month.

]]>best dealsfebruaryfebruary salessalessavings experimentSavingsExperimentshoppingNadine CheungTue, 12 Feb 2013 10:00:00 ESTHow to Score Free E-Bookshttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/08/did-you-know-free-ebooks-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/08/did-you-know-free-ebooks-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/08/did-you-know-free-ebooks-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment
You can enjoy a good book on your e-reader without having to shell out any money. Here's how you can indulge in popular titles and classic literature for free.

Drafty windows can allow up to 25 percent of a home's heat to escape. One low-cost solution is to invest in energy-efficient curtains, which are available at any big box retailer. They can help lower heat loss by 25 percent, but depending on how many windows you have their $12 price tags can start to add up.

A more cost-effective solution is window film. It's not only easy to install, but it creates a seal that can reduce heat loss by 50 percent. Some consumers have reported a savings of $25 on their heating bill, and at $1 to $2 per film, it's a much cheaper option than energy-efficient curtains.

If you need a fast fix, bubble wrap is an effective substitute for window film. Place a piece with the bubble side against the glass, and use double-sided tape to keep it secure. It's not pretty, but it's great if you need a quick solution.

As far as drafty doors go, weather stripping is relatively inexpensive. However, a DIY door snake provides plenty of function for a fraction of the price. All you need is a pair of scissors, some fabric, a sewing kit, a funnel and some filling, like rice or kitty litter. The project does take time, but if you have it, this can be a fun weekend project for you and your family.

So, when it comes to keeping your home warm, don't let your money escape you. Try one of these easy and economical window and door solutions and you'll stay toasty all winter.

]]>billsdrafty windowsfor the homeheatheatinghomeinsulationSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentwindowsNadine CheungThu, 07 Feb 2013 10:00:00 ESTAre You Being Frugal When it Comes to Mail-Order Food? -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/05/does-mail-order-food-save-you-money-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/05/does-mail-order-food-save-you-money-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/02/05/does-mail-order-food-save-you-money-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment It's not always easy to get to the grocery store, which is why food-of-the-month clubs can be enticing options. However, while they offer convenience, they can also be costly. So, does it pay to have your food shipped or are you better off having it served to you at a restaurant?

For instance, the coffee-of-the-month club on AmazingClubs.com will get you a pound of coffee for $15. That works out to 94 cents for a 16-ounce cup of brewed joe. If you were to go to a coffee shop, that same cup of java could cost you anywhere from $2 to $5 dollars, so between the two, the monthly club appears to be better deal.

But, if you're going to brew at home, you might as well go to the grocery store and buy a bag of grounds there. You can make yourself a 16-ounce cup of Eight O'Clock coffee that will only cost you 45 cents. That's half off the club price. However, if you're looking for variety and a gourmet experience, mail-order is the way to go.

Omaha Steaks is one of the largest purveyors of beef, and at $89 per shipment, you're looking at approximately $30 per pound. In this case, it's better to dine out. When it comes to steak, restaurants can't charge people $40 or more per entree, so they often break even or sell it at a loss. They make up for the loss by marking up soda and other beverages, so if you stick with water, you'll be walking away with a full stomach and a great deal.

Bottom line: Mail-order food comes with a price tag for its convenience, but there are values to be had. Depending on your tastes, a little research will make the costs easier to digest.

]]>foodfood shoppinggrocerieskitchenmail order foodonline shoppingsavings experimentSavingsExperimentshoppingNadine CheungTue, 05 Feb 2013 10:00:00 ESTGet Eye-Opening Savings on Glasses -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/30/get-eye-opening-savings-on-glasses-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/30/get-eye-opening-savings-on-glasses-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/30/get-eye-opening-savings-on-glasses-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment For many, eyeglasses are a necessity, but now that the functional frames have become a fashion accessory, prices have gone way up. Fear not, though, frugal shoppers. There are still places that offer stylish options at a deep discount.

First, a quick recap on how glasses, which were once viewed as undesirable, went from geek to chic. According to 60 Minutes, eyewear giant Luxottica has been at the forefront of the industry, teaming up with luxury brands to manufacture frames. Over the years, the Italian company has signed deals with the likes of Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Ralph Lauren and Versace, just to name a few, and has not only changed the perception of glasses, but raised the prices on them, too. On top of owning brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley, retail chains like LensCrafters, Pearle Vision and Sunglass Hut are also under Luxottica's umbrella.

"Luxottica's dominance ... it's what's called a price maker, which means that essentially it can set prices and other people will follow in its make," SmartMoney.com writer Brett Arends said when he sat down with the CBS news program. This explains why your local optician's prices are still high.

Although it is relatively inexpensive to make a pair of glasses, they generally retail for 20 times their cost -- and that's just for the frames. With prescription lenses, you could be looking at a $600 bill, if you were to opt for a pair of designer specs. The average cost of a pair of glasses is $300, which is still a hefty price tag for plastic, glass and metal.

Despite Luxottica's dominant market share, consumers can still get a deal on frames. The company's CEO Andrea Guerra names Walmart and Costco as its biggest competitors, while online retailers like Warby Parker, 39 Dollar Glasses and Eye Buy Direct are selling eyewear for hundreds less than their average cost.

Warby Parker, in particular, is giving luxury brands a run for their money by offering a line of trendy frames for $95, including prescription lenses made of polycarbonate plastic. According to the New York Times, the company "keeps prices low by ordering from manufacturers and selling directly to consumers."

"After we learned there was no reason that glasses should be this expensive, we said, why don't we create a different model?" Warby Parker co-founder David Gilboa told the paper. "We can bypass the retail channel and sell them for a hundred dollars and still have a very viable business."

In the end, that means you can afford fashionable frames at a lower price tag. So, the next time you're shopping for new glasses, consider looking online or heading to Walmart or Costco. Your eyes and your wallet will thank you.

]]>eyeglasseseyesEyeWearglassesSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentshoppingwarby parkerNadine CheungWed, 30 Jan 2013 15:30:00 ESTGet More for Your Money by Repurposing Items for Your Kitchen -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/29/repurposing-items-for-your-kitchen-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/29/repurposing-items-for-your-kitchen-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/29/repurposing-items-for-your-kitchen-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment Reusing everyday items can lead to a good deal of savings over time. Here, our experts discuss ways to repurpose common objects that are both useful in the kitchen and budget-friendly.

For instance, when you buy a bunch of oranges, think twice before tossing those mesh produce bags. With three of them you can make a handy and effective scrub sponge for free. First, cut off the tags and labels. Then, take a bag and tie a knot on one end. Next, stuff it with two more bags, and then knot the other end. You'll have a great scrubber in seconds.

Fruit flies are a nuisance, but a 2-liter soda bottle can help you get rid of them fast. Take an empty bottle and cut it in half. Fill the bottom half with sugar water and place on the counter. Then, take the top half and invert it before setting it into the bottom piece. Flies will go in, but they'll never come out.

Ketchup bottles are also handy in the kitchen. When the condiment is gone, rinse out the bottle and fill it with pancake batter to make a no-mess dispenser that will allow you to make breakfast with ease.

Do you have the need to separate egg yolks from their whites? You'll never break a yolk again using this water bottle method. Simply crack an egg into a dish and have an empty water bottle handy. Turn the bottle upside down and gently squeeze before placing the mouth over the yolk. When you're ready, release your grip from the bottle to create suction. The yolk will easily get sucked into the bottle. Just lightly squeeze again to place the yolk into another bowl without it breaking.

These are just a few great ways to reuse common items that you might otherwise throw away. Get more use out of your goods and you'll be smiling all the way to the bank.

]]>kitchenrepurposingreusesavings experimentSavingsExperimentNadine CheungTue, 29 Jan 2013 10:00:00 ESTCut the Cost of Cold Medicine -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/28/did-you-know-cut-the-cost-of-cold-medicine-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/28/did-you-know-cut-the-cost-of-cold-medicine-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/28/did-you-know-cut-the-cost-of-cold-medicine-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment
When it comes to cold relief, you can save money by knowing what to buy at the drugstore. Stay safe and frugal with these tips on purchasing over-the-counter medicine.

]]>coldCold medicineCommon Colddid you knowhealthmedicinesavings experimentSavingsExperimentshoppingNadine CheungMon, 28 Jan 2013 10:33:00 ESTBudget-Friendly Tips for a Stocked Pantry -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/22/save-money-on-pantry-essentials-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/22/save-money-on-pantry-essentials-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/22/save-money-on-pantry-essentials-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment A well-stocked pantry is the key to making great meals on the fly. With go-to spices, canned goods and cooking essentials, you'll never run out of dinner ideas, but how can you make sure your pantry is full without wasting money?

First, start stashing. When there are sales on regularly used items, buy two (or more) instead of one. You'll end up making fewer trips to the store, and use less gas overall. Stick with non-perishables to get the best shelf-life, and make sure these 12 essential pantry ingredients are on your shopping list.

Next, stay organized to minimize waste. Place older items in the front of your pantry, and store newer purchases in the back. You can even extend the life of certain products by storing them in the freezer. Flour, nuts and baking products keep well in cool temperatures.

If you have the space, try shopping for non-perishables in bulk at wholesale retailers like Costco. You can cut costs even further by pooling your efforts with a few friends. Buy items in bulk and divide the goods up between you, and you'll save money, gas and, ultimately, pantry space.

Ready to ensure you'll always be able to whip up a quick and delicious meal? Follow these easy tips on how to stay organized and stocked, and your pantry will forever stay fresh and well-maintained.

]]>billsEnergyEnergy savingfor the homeheatinghomeSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentthermostatNadine CheungFri, 18 Jan 2013 10:00:00 ESTGet the Best Discount on a New Cell Phonehttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/16/get-the-best-discount-on-a-new-cell-phone-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/16/get-the-best-discount-on-a-new-cell-phone-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/16/get-the-best-discount-on-a-new-cell-phone-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Technology, Savings Experiment When it's time to purchase a new cell phone, the options are limitless. So, how can you save money while getting the best gadget for your needs? Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind.

With all of the carriers, manufacturers and models out there, getting a new phone can be dizzying. If you are loyal to your current carrier, however, you could score a new phone for free. Yes, free. Many carriers will waive the fee for certain models, if you sign a new contract. If you're happy with your carrier, this is a no-brainer. Additionally, you can get a deep discount on the newest technologies (i.e. the iPhone 5 or the Note II) by signing the new agreement.

Refurbished phones are also a good way to get newer devices at a discount. Some of the components of the phone may have been replaced, but the phones usually come with a good warranty. There's a stigma about refurbished phones, but they are generally backed by the company that's selling them, and will perform all your phone functions for less.

If you don't need the latest and greatest phone in your life, think about which features you can eliminate and look for cheap options on sites like Wirefly. The company offers a wide selection of models, and you can easily compare them no matter which carrier you have.

If you're looking to switch carriers, use it to your advantage. Many companies don't like to see their existing customers go, and may offer discounts that are too good to pass up. When talking to new carriers, explain that you are already with another company and ask what they can do to convince you to switch over. Many times a customer service rep can add additional discounts to help sweeten the deal.

If you're not into the idea of having a contract, invest in a prepaid phone. They're the best option for the most basic cell phone user, as you can pay as you go.

]]>cell phonediscountmobile phonephoneSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimenttechnologyNadine CheungWed, 16 Jan 2013 14:30:00 ESTHow to Protect Yourself From Credit Fraudhttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/15/how-to-protect-yourself-from-credit-card-fraud-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/15/how-to-protect-yourself-from-credit-card-fraud-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/15/how-to-protect-yourself-from-credit-card-fraud-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment
The Internet has made shopping more convenient, but identity theft is on the rise. So, how can you prevent your credit card number from being stolen, while continuing to enjoy the advantages of buying things online?

According to Javelin Strategy & Research credit card fraud has risen 87 percent since 2010, resulting in a total loss of $6 billion. Jim Van Dyke, Javelin's president and founder tells NBC News that this is because criminals are rapidly changing their identity theft methods.

There are steps you can take to protect yourself, though. First, use a credit card as opposed to a debit card. While the Internet may be a place from which to steal your identity, using a credit card can protect you in the long run. LearnVest reports via Identity Theft Resource Center that "the safest way to shop on the Internet is with a credit card." If your card number is stolen, you are protected under the federal Fair Credit Billing Act, which limits your liability at $50. Meanwhile, debit card damages are capped by law at $500.

"Phishing" is still popular on the web, and now on your mobile phone, where you can be asked to "verify" your personal information for various reasons. Watch out for suspicious emails, phone calls and text messages asking for your account info, which legitimate institutions would never do.

Finally, invest in a shredder. Experian.com says that sifting through trash is still one of the most popular ways for criminals to obtain your personal information, so shred any document that includes any identifying information. It's a no-brainer.

The ease and convenience of online shopping shouldn't be hampered by those with criminal intentions, but it's important to take measures to protect yourself. That way you can shop and save, safely.

]]>credit card fraudcredit cardsfraudonline shoppingSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimenttechnologyNadine CheungTue, 15 Jan 2013 10:00:00 ESTSleep Well While You Save on Comforters -- Savings Experimenthttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/11/when-to-buy-comforters-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/11/when-to-buy-comforters-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/11/when-to-buy-comforters-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment You can save on your heating bill by turning down your thermostat, but the cold may not suit everyone in the house. That's where the warmth of a quality comforter comes in.

For every degree you turn down your thermostat, you can save 1-2 percent on your bill overnight, which amounts to 10 percent in savings over a year. With that money, you can invest in a cozy bed cover that will keep you toasty while you keep money in the bank.

The best time of the year to shop for a comforter is in January, because that's when top sales occur. "January has been white sale time ever since John Wanamaker of Philadelphia started the trend in Philadelphia in 1878," reports Walletpop via Today.com. "Many stores will be vying to sell you new sheets, comforters, towels and pillows, at the year's best prices."

If the January sale season has passed, try shopping in the summer. It's an off-time for warm bedding, so you're likely to get a great deal.

Proper care will extend the life of your comforter, and ultimately save you money. If your comforter is machine washable, clean it once a year. Use dryer balls to keep it fluffy, and air it out a couple of times per year. In the summer months, store it in breathable bag and in a well-ventilated area.

Using these tips, you can save yourself money on your heating bill and score yourself a great deal on a comforter. Either way, you'll be covered.

]]>bedbeddingbedroomcomforterfor the homeSavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentNadine CheungFri, 11 Jan 2013 10:00:00 ESTHow to Save on Winterizing Your Carhttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/09/did-you-know-winterizing-your-car-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/09/did-you-know-winterizing-your-car-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/09/did-you-know-winterizing-your-car-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Did You KnowDepending on where you live, winter can be brutal on your car. If you haven't prepped your vehicle for the season yet, here are some tips on how to do it yourself and save.

]]>autocarcarsdid you knowsave moneySavings ExperimentSavingsExperimentTravel AutoswinterizeNadine CheungWed, 09 Jan 2013 12:30:00 ESTBrand Name vs. Store Brands: How to Get the Best Bargainhttp://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/09/brand-name-vs-store-brands-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/09/brand-name-vs-store-brands-savings-experiment/http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/01/09/brand-name-vs-store-brands-savings-experiment/#commentsFiled under: Savings Experiment, Shopping Supermarkets stock dozens of options for any given food item, and if you're trying to save money, generic or store brands usually offer a better deal. However, this isn't always the case. So, which products will get you the most bang for your buck?

According to Time, many products from store brand lines -- like Target's Archer Farms and Whole Foods' 365 Everyday Value -- are produced at the same factories as brand-name companies. The ingredients are nearly identical, but the packaging is different.

In fact, when Consumer Reports conducted a blind taste test, many of the off-brand items came out on top or tied with their brand-name counterparts. "The study reaffirms that store brands are worth a try," said Tod Marks, Consumer Reports' senior projects editor. "For a family that spends $100 a week on groceries, the savings could add up to more than $1,500 a year."

By opting for store brands, you can save anywhere from 30 to 50 percent on your shopping items without skimping on quality or taste. However, many big brands are reputable and have the perception of higher quality, which no-name or generic brands may not have.

If you're on the fence about purchasing an off-brand product, Andrew Schrage, founder of Money Crashers, has come up with a few quick rules of thumb to go by. According to the Business Insider article, you can save on generic non-perishable snacks, cleaning products, paper goods and diapers, but when in doubt, you should stick to name-brand dairy products, meat, pet food and baby food.

If you're accustomed to brand name goods, try swapping one or two items to start. Even switching a few items on your shopping list will help you keep more money in your pocket.